london

Mind the Gap

A famous warning on the Tube. Watch your step between the train and the platform.

Be Aware of Phone Snatching

Moped-riding thieves snatching phones from pedestrians' hands is a known issue. Be aware of your surroundings when using your phone on the street.

Look Right, Then Left

Traffic drives on the left. Many pedestrian crossings have reminders painted on the road for tourists.

The Sunday Roast

To British institution. Find a good pub on a Sunday for roast meat (or a veggie option) with all the trimmings: roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy.

Experience Afternoon Tea

A quintessential British experience. Can range from traditional and elegant at a top hotel to quirky and themed at a café.

Pub Etiquette

Order and pay for your drinks at the bar. Tipping for drinks is not expected. If you eat, you may have to find a table first and note the number.

Stand on the Right

This is the golden rule of the Tube escalators. Stand on the right, walk on the left. Breaking it will annoy locals.

Use Contactless or Oyster

Don't buy single paper tickets; they are extremely expensive. Use a contactless bank card or an Oyster card for the best fares. Fares are 'capped' daily.

Take the Bus

Buses are cheaper than the Tube and offer a fantastic, cheap sightseeing tour. Sit at the front on the top deck for the best views.

Queuing is an Art Form

Brits queue for everything. Always find the back of the line and wait your turn patiently. Do not cut online.

'Cheers' is a Multi-Tool

It can mean 'thank you', 'goodbye', or be used for a toast. It's a versatile and friendly expression.

Tipping

In restaurants, a service charge of 12.5% ​​is often added to the bill. If not, a tip of 10-15% is customary for good service. Tipping is not expected in pubs or for fast food.

Alcohol Salts

You must be 18 or older to buy alcohol. Supermarkets have restricted hours for selling it (usually not late at night). Pubs have specific closing times.

Tuxedo

Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places and workplaces, including pubs, restaurants, and on public transport.

National Health Service (NHS)

The UK has a public healthcare system. Emergency care is available to everyone, but tourists may be charged for further hospital treatment. Get travel insurance.

Pharmacies

High-street chemists like Boots and Superdrug are plentiful. They can offer advice for minor medications and sell over-the-counter medication.

Walk the Canals

For a different perspective, walk along Regent's Canal from the picturesque Little Venice to the vibrant Camden Market.

Explore Neighborhood Market

Beyond Borough Market, check out Broadway Market (Saturdays in Hackney) or Maltby Street Market (weekends) for a more local foodie vibe.

Visit to Sky Garden

The Sky Garden offers fantastic free views of London (better than the London Eye, some say). You must book your free ticket online in advance.